Christmas is just around the corner, and with it comes the chance to relax in front of some festive classics on the telly, and enjoy a little traditional TV. However, while the programs may be classics, the way we’re viewing them is ultra-modern – what with our inability to put away the smartphones and tablets for even a moment.

Don’t just take the word of the Mirror journalist who says this is the case – the story has even been backed up by facts! That Danny Walker of the Mirror believes it rare and impressive that a story is supported by facts presumably speaks volumes about the veracity of the average output of the publication once owned by Robert Maxwell.

Still, this story does have facts – facts provided by the company behind the story: eBay.

eBay spokesman, Steven Heywood, says; “Smartphones and tablets have shaped the way we shop and the rise of ‘dual-screening’ has created a direct correlation between what we are watching on TV and the purchases we are making.

“The phenomenon means these shows are not only dominating our TV screens but also our shopping baskets”

So, just because you’re watching Eric and Ernie skip away from the camera for the umpteenth time, there’s no excuse not to be following those last minute auctions just as closely, according to eBay.